Waimauku: Talk to the animals

CEDRIC GRAY visits a fabulous hobby farm that the local wildlife considers home.

Aptly named Twinpine is a hobby farm in the purest sense of the term.

Sheep and cattle graze in the nine well-fenced paddocks, which are in excellent pasture, and dogs enjoy the luxury of a mobile kennel compound in an enclosed, lawn-like playground.

Two aviaries and a lovely lagoon that doubles as a wildlife refuge complete the picture.

Twinpine is a 4.13ha property in Taiapa Rd, Waimauku, which is about 40km north-west of Auckland. It is 5km from Muriwai Beach and surrounded by properties of similar size. The challenging Muriwai Golf Course is nearby, and the region is gaining prominence for its cuisine and vineyards.

Yet one steps back in time at Twinpine, where Kevin and Karyn Walker share a charming, rustic-style home with stunning views across the lagoon.

The scene is framed by twin pine plantations on higher ground on a neighbouring property. The trees not only ensure year-round shelter, but also create the impression that Twinpine is a neat and tidy ampitheatre.

The English country garden setting enhances the picture. There is a beautiful mix of mature exotic and native trees, the latter including rimu, puriri and kowhai, and pathways through lawns and gardens. A small bridge provides access to an island in the lagoon - the perfect setting for some relaxation.

At the end of a sweeping driveway, the house has two levels. The ground floor comprises a cosy family dining-kitchen area, family lounge, two bedrooms and a central bathroom complete with a clawfoot bath.

There is polished timber flooring throughout and timber cathedral ceilings in the lounge. The striking decor is enhanced by rustic furniture and fittings that the Walkers have acquired over the years.

The main living area opens to wide timber decks - which are ideal for outdoor dining - a swimming pool and a spa pool enclosed by a neat pergola.

On the first floor, the master bedroom has an en suite. A staircase leads from the ground floor to a wine cellar and double garage.

A dressage arena, stables for two horses and a tackroom are located near a comfortable, two-bedroom cottage, which is ideal for renting out or guest accommodation.

The Walkers intend to buy a larger property in the district and Twinpine is being auctioned by Harcourts, Kumeu, on November 2. Contact Simon Spiller on 412 7666 for details.